In November of 2007, eight of us who were traveling together following a wedding, had the extraordinary experience of staying in four of the bungalows at Chiang Dao Nest 2 for three nights.
We couldn't have chosen a better place. Stuart and Wicca have magically created, along with Chiang Dao Nest 1 just down the road, a relaxed atmosphere with sophisticated touches and gourmet food set in their beautiful, naturalized grounds. Their bungalow cottages are cozy and immaculate. In fact our cottage bathroom was the cleanest we experienced in Thailand. In the mornings we'd gather around a wooden table in their open air dining area to savor delicious breakfasts and enjoy conversation or read at our leisure. Nothing was rushed. At our request they arranged for Thai massages our first morning there. I would return to Chiang Dao for that alone! They arranged for tours that we requested but they didn't push them on us. We had dinners at Nest 1 down the road and they were superb. I would return to Chiang Dao Nest 2 in a heartbeat, if I could. It is my idea of the perfect blend of laid-back and sophistication.

It's impossible for photos to capture the beauty of this location; one really has to be there in person to appreciate the panoramic view of the lush misty mountains. Even at the end of a humid June, the Chiang Dao Nests proved to be the most comfortable part of our 5-week trip to Asia. The hosts are remarkably friendly and warm, and their cooking alone is worth the trip! The bungalows are extremely clean and comfortable, but why spend time inside? Socialize in the comfortable common area with new friends, take an early morning walk up to the beautiful mountainside Buddhist temple, or go crawling through ancient caves. Here are some tips: Rent a motorbike (ask Wicha how---it's cheaper than you think). The area surrounding the nests is full of back country roads with a beautiful view. My wife and I sat atop our bike looking out across the vast soft green space and watched a storm move across a mountain. Imagination can't capture the beauty. Take a trip into Chiang Dao, only minutes by bike, to visit the wonderful markets. Also, ride an elephant. If you've never been atop these amazing and brilliant creatures, ask Wicha about the tours that leave from the nests. But most of all, play a game of Go Fish with Wicha and Stewart's son, Joseph---an amazing little boy with a terrifyingly good memory. And when all is said and done, you'll be amazed at how little a week at this place will cost you, even with drinks and food included. A truly amazing place. If we ever manage to make it back to Thailand, you can be sure we'll visit the Chiang Dao Nests again.

Geoff and I travelled from Queensland, Australia to Northern Thailand and having seen the "Nest" site prior to leaving, we stayed there for 2 nights.

We were DELIGHTED with everything - the comfort of the accommodation, the friendliness of the staff and the feeling of relaxation in the most beautiful location. I have to mention Wiccha - her skills in the kitchen are second to none, we revelled in the food and in the delightful way "Ayr" looked after us.

The best recommendation is to say that we are planning a return trip with friends, we can't speak more highly than to re-visit this wonderful oasis.

I wanted to love this place but felt indifference from owners and some of staff. Decent accomodations in a stunning setting spoiled by rude employee on arrival. We spent 3 weeks in Thailand and this was the only place that did not make us feel welcome. Stuart admitted to not having paid attention to our booking for bungalows with twin beds. They did bring cots over from Nest 1 to accommodate our needs. Bed and cot were comfortable. The bathrooms were basic; ours had a shower curtain rod and curtain in desperate need of replacement. We had to ask for an extra towel and additional bar of soap after 2 days.

While it was nice to have a change from Thai food, I found the food average to slightly above average. I did not find the prices out of line for the food but they were high after spending so little for Thai meals.

We also found Wicha to have a superior attitude. She was intially churlish but then became condescending. I would advise the owners to hire an experienced manager for the Nest and to stay behind the scene.